Caterpillar introduces ‘ease of use’ mini hydraulic excavator tech

Caterpillar has introduced two new Mini Hydraulic Excavator (MHE) Ease of Use technologies – Indicate and E-Fence – for the Cat 306 CR, 308 CR and 309 CR next-generation mini hydraulic excavators.

Cat says that the technology will simplify operation, improve accuracy, reduce costs and help operators work more safely.

The US-based company says that they have seen a demand for more technology as customers are wanting to do more complicated jobs with smaller machines - the Ease of Use technologies have been built and designed with the demand in mind.

Cat 306 CR (Photo: Caterpillar)

The Ease of Use E-Fence limits machine motion to within operator preset boundaries for ceiling, floor, wall and swing meaning structures can be avoided overhead, underground, in front or to the left or right of the machine.

E-Fence is said to be ideal for new operators to work within set boundaries and helps minimise job costs from repairs and downtime due to equipment damage and fines from damaging utilities or other structures. For experienced operators, E-Fence allows them to work more efficiently and safely while requiring fewer ground personnel in the working area.

The Ease of Use Indicate provides visual and audible indications of bucket position compared to target grade to assist operators in cutting to exact specifications the first time. Cat says that operators are able to reach target grade faster with improved precision and reduced need for on-the-ground grade checking to create a safer work environment.

Current production Cat 306 CR, 308 CR and 309 CR Next Gen Mini Hydraulic Excavators are shipped from the factory with Ease-of-Use technology pre-installed.

Alternatively, the company says that Indicate and E-Fence can be ordered bundled together or as separate feature packages that can be installed at the factory or via a dealership.